Management

Today’s managers are so much more than simple caretakers. Self-storage managers are responsible for a facility’s marketing, daily and monthly maintenance, signage, security, renovations, curb appeal, sales, customer service, site inspections, lien sales and auctions, community relations, website, ancillary services and products, and more. Day-to-day self-storage operation requires a different set of skills that includes the handling of operational essentials, customer-service savvy, phone etiquette, legal know-how, and sales and marketing finesse. Managers must define their markets, determine rental rates and concessions, deal with the media, choose effective advertising, and understand online marketing all while keeping an eye on the facility’s bottom line.

No matter what your profession or level in your company, at some point, you’re going to have to initiate a “difficult conversation” with a boss, co-worker or colleague. Many people simply avoid the situation, but a better option is to learn the skills needed to have these ...More

It’s time for you to take a look at five common myths that keep companies from sprinting to the finish line. If you want to survive the economic recovery, avoid these failed strategies to stay ahead in the marathon. ...More

Self-storage investment experts Jason Allen, Carl Touhey and Frank Rolfe will teach a two-day boot camp about investing in the industry Nov. 13-14 in San Francisco. The event aims to teach attendees how to find good self-storage properties and profitably manage their ...More

The recent acquisition of a self-storage facility by the state of Idaho could set a dangerous precedent. Blogger Matthew Van Horn enumerates all the reasons why this is a bad idea for the self-storage industry. ...More

Westy Self Storage of Stamford, Conn., is the designated drop-off location for a new “Four for Four” charity-donation drive that benefits local not-for-profit organizations: Dress for Success of Mid-Fairfield County, Friends Book Shop at the Ferguson Library, Laurel House, ...More